ENVI 219T The Geology and Development of Modern Asia (Same as Geosciences 219T) (Not offered 2008-2009; to be offered 2009-2010)(W)

GEOS 219T The Geology and Development of Modern Asia (Same as Environmental Science 219) (Not offered 2008-2009; to be offered 2009-2010)(W)
Asia is rapidly emerging as a major world economic and political power. This course examines how the geology and climate of the region influence its development. The first part of the course examines the evolution of the physical setting, as well as the hazards such as earthquakes which underlay both major urban centers like Tokyo and Taiwan and rural areas as seen in Pakistan in 2005. The second part of the course examines the evolution of climate in the region, its influence on staple and cash crops, and potential for prediction of the climate variations that severely impact the subsistence lifestyle of much of the population. The third part of the course examines the environmental challenges of development, including the advantages and disadvantages of various geological energy sources, the challenge of assuring clean water resources, and the threat of global warming and sea level rise on the Asian deltas. After an initial group meeting, students will meet in pairs for one hour each week with the instructor. Each student will present a written paper every other week for criticism during the tutorial session.
Format: tutorial. Evaluation will be based on the five papers and each student's effectiveness as a critic.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 10 (expected: 10). Preference to first and second year students.
STOLL